Tararua District Council chooses rate increase of 4.83%

Tararua District Council has confirmed a rates increase of 4.83%, which mayor Scott Gilmore (left) and chief executive Corin Haines say is due to a focus on efficiency.

Tararua District Council’s rates rise for the year will be lower than earlier projections.

The council endorsed its annual budget (previously known as the annual plan) and fees and charges for 2026/27, with an average rates increase of 4.83%.

Earlier projections set the increase at 11.84%.

The annual budget will be formally adopted in May.

Mayor Scott Gilmore said the outcome reflected a disciplined and practical approach from elected members and staff.

He said there was a strong focus on affordability while continuing to deliver essential services for the community.

“We know any increase is challenging, but we have done everything we can to keep it as low as possible while still maintaining the services our communities rely on.”

Gilmore said the reduction was achieved through getting the basics right.

“We heard clearly from our community that affordability matters. Since coming into office, that has been our top priority.

“We’ve taken a hard look at costs, focused on more efficient ways to deliver core services, and made careful decisions about where we spend.”

The annual budget outlines the council’s priorities for the year ahead, with a continued focus on affordability and efficiency, maintaining core infrastructure, and supporting the district’s resilience and growth.

Chief executive Corin Haines said the result reflected discipline.

“We’ve significantly reduced our operating costs and taken a practical approach to how we manage our assets and services.

“At the same time, we need to ensure we continue to invest in essential infrastructure like roads, pipes, and community facilities.”

Haines said a large portion of the remaining increase was driven by factors outside of the council’s control, particularly interest costs and depreciation, which were necessary to maintain and replace infrastructure over time.

Council said 4.83% was an average across the district, and individual rate changes would vary depending on factors such as property value, location, and the services received.

This year, the council didn’t undertake formal consultation on the annual budget.

Gilmore said it was a conscious decision to focus on financial discipline and avoid introducing significant changes.

“This year has been about getting the basics right, maintaining services, and carefully managing our finances rather than introducing new projects or major changes.”

Gilmore said the council was preparing for early engagement on the next Long Term Plan, with broader conversations with the community about the future direction of the district.

“It’s an opportunity to step back, look ahead, and work alongside our communities to make sure we’re setting a direction that is both sustainable and affordable over the long term.”

This annual budget also reflected the current delivery of water services through the council.